Product Media magazine - July & August 2024

LIGHTERS

When the smallest thing says alot.

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Contents

4 Raisingthe bar

JULY/AUGUST2024 JULY/AUGUST 2024 30 20 26 10 22 4

TheBPMASustainability Conference wasthe placetobefor theconversationthatmatters most

10 Pens &stationery

What’s newinthe worldofwriting instrumentsand notepads?

20 Thebig debate

TheBPMA’ssuperpanelonour sustainability journey

22 AskClive

What makespolyester agame changerfor sports apparel?

WELCOME

By thetimethisissue comes out Britainwill have anew government followingthe general election on 4July

What difference will it make?The Labour Party, whichlooks like forming thegovernment, haspromisedtobe aparty of business with growth focused policies such as alessobstructive planning regime,infrastructure investment,and anationalwealthfund to invest in jobs

Labour hasalsosaiditwill look to reset traderelations with theEU, whichcould be crucialtounlocking the growth that itsplans rely on

It is certainly somethingthathas been an issue forbusinessesinour sector

ProductMedia Magazine is availabletothe whole promotional merchandiseindustry.

It is theofficial magazine of the BritishPromotional Merchandise Association (BPMA)

23 Sustainability updates Promocompanies areseizing theinitiative

2 StepForwardPledges

Preseliand BICGraphicexplain thechanges they aremaking

26 Technology Wireless charging goes mainstream

27 Excellence rewarded Page Groupmadeits annual awards

both in termsofimportingfromthe Continentand exportingtoit. Afresh look at currentprocedurescouldbenefit many BritishSMEs.

In thepost-Brexit era, many UK-based merchandisecompanies have filed exportingtothe EU as ‘too problematic’ Whilelotsofcompaniesare happyto servethe UK market,there areothers whocouldbenefitfroma reviewofthe less than seamless regulationsthatthey face at theminute.

Things canonly getbetter, surely? Oneareawhere thereisacaseto be made foroptimism is thesector’s attitude to sustainability,whichwas on displayat theBPMASustainability Conference recently

BritishPromotional Merchandise Association

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Editorial

29 Finance Don’tgivenon-payers aholiday

30 55 notout Impamark celebrates in its sixthdecade

31 Gadgetsadvance DesktopIdeas on thechanging face of tech

32 BPMA News Celebratingour students

34 On theRoad Meetingmembers at industry events

Youcan read afull review inside this issueonp4, butone topic that resonated with delegateswas that theindustry should be less shyabout trumpetingits successes in this area

As Board Member MelissaChevin revealed when updating on the StepForward Pledge,lotsofmembers aredoinggreat things.Becomingmore sustainable is ajourney rather than an eventwhichperhaps leavessomefeeling that theycan’t tell theirstory untilthey have dotted allthe i’sand crossedthe t’s. However, that canmeangreat stories areuntold. BPMA membersshould shoutabout theirsustainablewins, and Product Media will do itsbest to showcase them

Advertising andMedia Pack

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Design andProduction

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Photography shutterstock.com Freepik.com

TheBPMAhas therighttorefuseeditorial content andadvertisements on sightofartwork,particularlywhere theremay be aconflict of interest

writtenpermissionofthe publishers.

Raisingthe bar

The industry sustainability conversation has moved on apace in just 12 months but there is still much to be done, the BPMA conference heard

Phil Goodman

The industry gathered forthe secondBPMASustainability ConferenceinMarlowtoexamine howfar it has movedonsince last year’s inaugural event

Outgoing chair,Haydn Willetts, opened theevent –his last beforehehands overto newchair Clive Allcott– with areminder that theBPMAis leading theway on this importantissue.

“Wehaveseen theindustryassociation step up on important events and topics we need to invest in forthe long-term sustainability of theindustry,”hesaid Willettsintroducedthe BPMA’s newCEO Phil Goodman, at hisfirst majorevent forthe association.Outlininganambitious set of newinitiatives includingarebranding, he said theBPMAwould change theway it looked

and presented itself to theoutsideworld.

“I’ve arrivedatthe BPMA witha mandate to changethings,” he said.“The BPMA needs to be morerelevant,and so doesthe industry. When Istarted my career 30 years ago, therewas an awareness of theBPMA that Idonot think young agencypeople have now. We needtoget back to that level of awareness.”

As well as therebranding, he said a new social and content strategy would be forthcoming, including theevolution of Product Media. Members can look forwardtomorecomplementary networking events, withthe firstin November,and ongoing research delivering important insights to theindustry.

Sustainabilityisanimportant part of this newfocus, Goodman said. “Itshould

be hard-wiredintobusiness. It’snot abox to tickand move on from.Bynextyear, sustainabilitywillbeburnt into whatwe do.We’re alreadythinking aboutwhatthe conference will look like in 12 months’time,” he added

Withthe BPMA due to celebrateits 60th anniversary, thetime is righttoraisethe profile of theindustry,reflecting on what it has achieved andwhere it is going. Goodman said that oneidea wasan exhibition of 60 yearsofmerchandise.

“Itisanopportunity to tell ourstory throughthose 60 years, andcould be launched atMerchandise WorldinJanuary, he said.

PLEDGE UPDATE

Presenting an updateonthe BPMA’s StepForward Pledge, BoardMember Melissa Chevin said that nobody was talking about sustainability30years ago “whichsome people thinkisbloody brilliant”,she joked. However, alack of engagement withthe subject would mean that thereisless opportunitytoinnovate and fewerwaystodifferentiate.

“Let’s treat sustainability as an opportunity andnot athreat,” she said.

Reviewing thefirstyear of theStepForward

Pledge whichwas introduced at last year’s conference,Chevin said therehad been incredible steps made by members,with more Pledgescoming in everyday

In total, therehavebeen95signatories to thePledge and 60%ofmembers have registered interest. Signatories include 35 suppliers, 59 distributors, and

one service partner Goodman said that thefirst year of thePledge had been impressive and now it is time to showthe tangible benefits of asustainable approach.Acarbon calculator is just one of theadded value initiativesthat arebeing considered for Pledge companies, he said.

PLEDGEBENEFITS

BPMA members said theStepForward Pledgehas benefitted them in anumber of ways: 27%saidithelped with business planning 26%said it helpedset sustainabilitytargets 29%said it aidedrecognition of sustainability 18%said it enhancedreputation among industrypeers

When it comes to specific Pledge commitments, 89%ofsignatories arecommitted to procuringand supplying agreater proportion of products from sustainable sources. This includes suchactions as bringing in supplier codes of conduct, lifecycle analysis of products, and providing an ‘eco’option when quoting.

On product packaging,85% are

ensuringmoreproducts usesustainable and easily recyclable or reusable packaging.Examples hereinclude dispensing with singleuse plastics, encouragingbulkshipments, andreusing incoming packaging.

On Scopeemissions, BPMA Board Member Melissa Chevinadmitted that thereismoreofachallengewith members stilltotackleScope 3in particular, where only 26%said it is an area they aredealing with. However, she said that work with BPMA partner, Planet Mark,would look to move members onwards. The BPMA also providesmonthly supportsessions via sustainabilityand compliancemanager, JennyDawes.

Updated sustainabilityteaching is nowalso part of theBPMA’sTPM and CPMqualifications.

Sustainability 2024

JOURNEY TO NETZERO

JamesShoreyfromsustainability consultancy,Planet Mark, updated conference on thechallenge ahead underlining that theonlyway to halt the unprecedented climateemergencyisby stopping theuse of fossil fuels.

Unveilinga gloomyraftofstatistics about extremeweather events, from highestever temperatures to increased floodinginthe UK, Shorey said thereisalsoroom foroptimism

Electricityproduction is now30% from renewablesources; sales of electricvehicles areup; deforestation ratesare down andsolar energy productionisbooming Howevermoreaction is needed, particularly on activelyreducing greenhousegas emissions througha NetZerostrategy, rather than relying on carbon neutralmeasures suchasoffset schemes

“Every year,the focusneeds to be on small reductions.It’samarathon, nota sprint, even though it looks scary,”hesaid.“Acarbon neutral approach is quite expensiveand has less impact than aNet Zero approach.”

Shorey explained howcarbon neutrality onlyaddressed Scope1 and 2emissions and said that NetZeroshouldberesponsible fora 90%reduction in Scopeemissionsoverall.

While Scope 3emissionsare complicated, it is an area forall companies to grapple with as it canberesponsiblefor 65-95% of emissions. Engaging withsuppliersand the supplychain is thereforeessential

“It can be daunting so it’sbesttothink of this as lotsofsmall tasks to work on, dealing withindividual suppliers. We have to tackle this together withsuppliers and clients,” he said.

HOWTOTACKLEYOUR

SCOPE 1, 2&3EMISSIONS

1Scope –map your business activities acrossthe 15 Scope 3categories

2Data –understand data requirements andsources

3Measurement &reporting– establish aNet Zerobaseline forScope 1, 2&3

4Setmeasurabletargets –toreduce emissions in your supplychain

5Action– engage allstakeholders in a carbon reductionstrategy

AD NETZERO

When it comes to advertising and marketing, thesector contributes 2-3% of globalemissions. The digital ecosystem is responsible for3.5% of all greenhouse gas emissions.

Elle Chartres, UK director of Ad NetZero, theindustry’s response to this saidthat this is agrowingproblem forthe sectorthatputs it on apar withthe aviationindustry

Of even greater consideration is thefact that advertising drivesdemand for97-98% of other globalemissions. However, on thesideofthe angels, advertising has the powertoinfluence socio-cultural changes that could lead to huge savings on carbon output, she added.

“Weneed to changethe wayweworkand theworkwemake,” said Chartres, explaining howa five-point action plan aimed to reduce theimpact of theindustry’sprocesses, and marshalits powertopersuadefor good.

BRANDS FORGOOD

54%of marketers think the industryhas aroletoplayin educating people about theiractions andchoices

43%of brandshavesustainability as keymarketing priority–up from 21%in2021

75%of employees consider companies’ environmental stancewhen consideringjobs

71%of theadvertising industry worryabout itsnegative impact

88%of brandshaveNet Zero targets

ELEPHANTINTHE ROOM

Responding to Chartres’challenge to the sector from promotional merchandise, Goodman said: “Weneedtomakeourselves not easytosay ‘no’ to.At themoment, merchandise can be thepart that helps brands feel moresustainable by discounting it.” Thiswas atheme amplifiedbySarah and KevinDuncan, from consultancy Expert Advice /Sleeping Lion whopointed to asurveythat claimedthat only 21%of promotionalmerchandise is kept forany lengthoftime, andthat23% is thrown away on theday

Althoughmanyinthe industrymight disputethe accuracyofthe statistics,there is aperception problem that does persist around merchandise that allpresent were keen to dispel

AminiESG audit carried out by the consultancyfounda year-on-year improvement among BPMA members compared with 2023. In all, 86%of respondents said ESG/sustainability played acentral role in thecompany’s mission. A further 88% said sustainability wascentral to marketing andcommunications.

CAN DO BETTER

However, thereisa gap between such good intents andtangibleaction,and certain aspectsofESG were lowerscoringthan others. While67% of staffhavereceived training on sustainability,and 62% of board meetings consider sustainability, only48% of companies have awritten energy efficiency policy, only 40%buildenvironmentaland social responsibilitycriteria intoreviews and bonuses, while only 14%ofcompanies have awater efficiencypolicy.

James Shorey

Kevin Duncan

Elle Chartres

7TH NOVEMBER 2024, 1PM-4PM

Bookings Now Open

Book your complimentary ticket to the first of many Member Mixers, a member exclusive event.Get readytoconnect and collaborate with fellow members, as you enjoy alight lunchand refreshments. Afantastic opportunity to expand networks, share ideas, and enjoy BPMA member company. To book please visit bpma.co.uk/events or email events@bpma.co.uk

Booking terms and conditions apply. Tickets are limited to two per member company andreserved on afirst come first served basis. Last bookings for event taken 2weeksprior to event date.Non-members can contact theBPMA to enquire.

Sustainability 2024

“You arenot alone, butithighlightsthe gap between wanting to do it andactually doing good,”saidKevinDuncan Acknowledgingthatthe 15 Sustainable Development Goalsofthe UN,which arethe basis of manydiscussions on sustainability, can seem loftyand remote Duncan neverthelesstookdelegates througha whirlwind presentation that demonstrated howtheycouldrelatemore closelytoeverydaybehaviouralchanges. He encourageddelegates to stop,think and challengetheir assumptions.

“There willbenastyquestions coming down thelineinfuture so youare as well workingout your responses now,”hesaid.

Delegates were ledthrougha workshop that attemptedtoshowhow they could bridge this gapbylooking at practical solutions to both upstream supplychain problems,and downstreamonesthat consider thechangingneedsofcustomers

Twoengaged groups examined these areas and reported back to conference on their findings. In thesupplychain area, it was felt it wasimportant to engage withsuppliers, including challenging dataintegritywhen necessary. Aproductpassport with detailed information of aspects suchas energy use

wasfelt to be away forwardand something that theBPMAcould be involvedin.

Forcustomers,one suggestion wasaQR codethat could provideall of theproduct information required, including details on end-of-lifedisposal. It wasalsofeltit is incumbentonthe industrytoexplain more fully whycheaper isn’talwaysbetter becoming betterattellingits story.

STORYTELLING HACKS

Luckily, businessconsultant Jody Newman wasonhand to advise on creating sustainability stories andbetter conveying thechangesbusinesses areintroducing.

“Everyone in this room has asustainability storytotell, even if they don’tknowityet,” shesaid. “And it’scomingdownthe lineso everyone will needtotell that story.

Businesses areall at different places on their journey, from themost engaged, who shecalled the‘purposefully passionate’,to those whowerestill sticking their fingers in their ears

Using examplesincluding Tony’s Chocolonely andNudie Jeans, Newman showedhow astrong brandstory based on sustainabilitycould providebrandswith strong standout in themarketplace.

stakeholders. Thisentails thinking of communications with procurement as a longer-term exercisethatgoesbeyondthe rounds of pitching.

Lander outlined that procurement departments often know little about merchandiseand aretherefore open to beingeducated, especiallyinemerging areas suchassustainability where they need to knowwhy thereisa price premium for certain ‘eco’products. Thiscould come in particularly useful when –ascan happen –adeal falls throughand procurement needs anew bidder.

He also called on merchandise companies to watchout forclues that apitch isn’tworth pursuing wholeheartedly,suchaswhenan incumbent is involvedand procurement just needs additional quotes forcomparison.

Overall,the messagewas to builda relationship that could lastbyexplaining coherently what youdo, howitaddsvalue, and howithelp clients do so

AI AND PANEL

Followingarapidlookatthe role of AI in merchandisefromHenrySmithofSentium, apanelofthe great andthe good of the industry discussedsomeofthe keythemes of theconference(seep20).

CEOPhil Goodman wrapped up by concludingthatthe industryasawhole wasraising thebar on expectationsaround sustainability. “And we need to keep raising thebar to get away from theworld we are in at themoment,and towards ever greater professionalism in our sector.”

TheBPMAthanks thesponsorsofthe conference fortheirsupport: XD Connects, DesktopIdeas BICGraphic, PF Concept, Victorinox, Kingly, Promotrade, Castelli, Senator information of

Withanincreasinglymoreregulated business environment andexpectations from corporatesfor moretransparency on theissue, thetimetodevelop acompelling narrative is now, she added.

PROCUREMENT PERSPECTIVE

Next up wasMikeLander of procurement specialists Piscari in conversation with Phil Goodman.

Usinghis decades of experience in business andprocurement, Lander revealedsomeofthe dark artsofdealing with procurementdepartments as well as practical tipsonhow to engage withthem, andwhen to disengage.

Importantly,hesaidthat distributors need to markettoprocurement departments in thesame waythat they do with other

SPONSORS

Jody Newman

Pen friends

Writing instruments and stationery remain ever popular standbys of merchandise, but that doesn’t mean that they are standing still

Despiteour ever moredigital lives, it seems manyofuscan’t quite seem to shakeoff some of our moreanalogue habits, not least when it comes to pen and paper

Take alookatthe desk in front of youand thechances are that whatever piece of tech youfavour –PC, laptop,tablet, or phone –it is supplemented withmoretraditional tools suchasanotebookand pens.

Scribblingour thoughts, taking notes on aconversation, compiling to do lists, or simply doodling, remain activitiesthatare second naturetomanyofusand can aid productivityand creativity.

So,it’snosurprise that writing instruments and stationeryremain among themost popular of promotional merchandise items. If an item can be guaranteed aplace on thedesk of someone youwant to influence –beitanemployee, customer,orsupplier –thenabranded version of it is an ongoing reminder of your organisation.

BEST SELLERS

According to Statista, theUKspent £1.2bn on ball point pens in 2022, and although it is amaturemarket, it continues to grow

Promotional pens arearelatively low-cost item that are pretty much universally acceptable to all demographics and age groups. They can be easily branded and come in avarietyofstylesand price

points meaning that thereissomething for all campaigns. They can be left behind after meetings, handed out at events, or even sent cost-effectively through thepost. For morevalued customers thereisalsothe option of going formoreexpensive writing instruments as gifts or areminder of a particularly valuable business deal.

In these days of environmental concern, writing instruments arealso being produced that offeramoresustainable choice forthe growing number of customers withaserious ESG remit. Pens arenow availablethat arerecyclable, made withrecycled materials, and last longer so fewerare needed.

TAKE ANOTE

The UK is also abuoyant marketfor notebooks –the biggest in Europe according to research by theDutch trade association, CBI, whichfound theUK accounted for23% of European notebook imports, followed by Germany(19%), France (12%), and theNetherlands (11%). Together,these countries accounted for nearly two-thirds of thetotal European notebookimports.

Trends that aredriving notebook growth include apost-pandemic focuson wellness that hasseen manyindividuals adopting amoreconsidered and offline lifestyle that hasseen thegrowthof reflection and adesirefor more‘me time’. books arealso creasingly seen s gifting options ather than simply tilitarian schoolor ffice supplies. Well-

Notebooks are also increasingly seen as rather than utilitarian school or office

designed and stylish products have ahigher perceivedvalue that makethem great for reward andrecognition of employees, suppliers and customers. Growingoptions forpersonalisation, suchasembossing and digital printing, has also changed the perception of notebooks, especially among millennials, some of whom areturning back to paper-based communications. Withplentyoflifeinpen and paper yet, Product Media takesalookatsome of what themarketoffers.

PEN TRENDS

Promotional pens continue to be apowerful marketing tool,evolving to meet the demands of an increasingly conscious and discerning market. Tancia Group,trading as The PenWarehouse and Snap Products, notes significant shifts in customer preferences and industrystandards.

Onemajor trend is themovetowards environmentally conscious materials and production processes. It is estimated that 130billion ballpoints areproduced every year,and according to theUN, nine billion plastic pens end up as landfill annually

End-users areprioritising pens made from GRS(GlobalRecycling Standard) materials, whichalign withthe growingemphasis on sustainable practices and abroader commitment to responsible consumption and production.

Tancia recently released several more sustainable pens, including theAstra-i Ballpen and theaward-winning Second Life Ballpen whichfeatures recycled materials. In termsoffunctionality,Tancia has

spotted anoticeable demand forpens with longer writing refills, whichaligns withthe desirefor products that offergreater value and longevity. The companyisadding longer-liferefills to its range, suchasthe ElectraBallpen.

On theprintingfront,directdigital print is rapidlyreplacing traditional padprinting. This method allows forvibrant, full-colour digital wrapping, offering unmatchedcustomisation options andhigherqualityfinishes.Itcaters to businesseslooking forvisuallystriking promotional itemsthat can capturetheir brand essence moreeffectively.The entire barrel of theContour Wrap Ballpen canbe coveredinfull colour print.

IN THE MOOD

Tancia’s best-selling A5 Mood Notebookwith soft feel PU cover, contains 160pages of lined 80gsm FSC certified paper andisavailable in awiderange of 23 colours. It features an elastic closure, ribbon bookmarkand expandablebackpocket, and is available with thechoiceofnine differentprinting methods.

cust le range of full colour

The customisable range of full colour Genie notebooks areavailable in avariety of sizes, corner designs, and stitching finishes to personalise thenotebook’sspine. Eachnotebookfeatures 80 pages of FSC certified paper

RAINBOWWARRIOR

In theworld of writing instruments, there arefew as iconic as theBIC 4Colours ballpen. BIC is bringing this classic to life withatrendy twist by introducing theBIC 4Colours Pastel, providing acontemporary take on this timeless writing instrument. By fusing thenostalgia of classic design withthe vitalityofcontemporary aesthetics, BIC claims to have combined functionalityand style.

Launched in April the4 Colours Pastel pens areavailable in threetrendy colours: yellow, purple, and light blue.

Another 4-in-1option is theBIC 4 Colours RainbowDécor,avibrant addition to thepromotional toolkit witha captivating rainbow-inspired design. Sustainabilityis built in withanew clip design featuring a 13%reduction in plastic.

Conceptually,RainbowDecor encourages businesses to embrace diversityand inject vibrancyintotheir promotional strategies. Enhanced customisation can be added by imprinting your logo or message on the whiteupper part of thepen.

As well as pens, whichinclude theiconic 70-year oldCristal ballpoint, BIC’s product range includes thedigital Rocketbook notebook, while apartnership with Moleskine brings its range of notebooks and journals to market.

BPMA EDUCATION PROGRAMME

Expert industry training

from £200+VAT

Book your place now

Whether you are an employer looking for tailored, specialist knowledge for your team or you want to increase your specialist knowledge, the BPMA Education Programme is perfect for promotional merchandise professionals. Written by the industry for the industry, courses are available online, 24-7. Places are available now on the only recognised qualification for the sector.

bpma.co.uk/education

NIPER LNESS JOURNAL

A new entrant into the

Anew product entrant intothe stationery sector launched last year in theshape of Juniper’s Wellness Journal. It has proveda popular choice forbrands, says managing director Andrew Langley

“Whatpeopleare liking is that it combines areally sustainable story, of UK manufacturing using recycledmaterials, allied to thefantastic abilitytobuild your owncolourscheme, while at thesame time providing brands with aproduct that is helpful and informative forstaff,but also demonstrates that as acompanytheytake mental healthawareness seriously,” he says.

Juniper has had positivefeedbackfrom its distributors about how it has enabled them to sell merchandise intothe HR departments of brands, opening up new sales channels forthe future.

The success of theoriginal awardwinningwellness journal has led to Juniper offering astudent journal/planner which has also been very well received.

“The markethereisfor corporates who runstudent programmes either as gap year interns, witha parting gift or where they aresponsoring students, or increasingly wherethey areoffering workplace degree apprenticeships allied to adegreecourse,” says Langley

BACK IN LEATHER

li i that leather is abyproduct of the anditisbetter to use this long-lasting resource, than end it to landfill.

“It is theoriginal upcycling.All our leathers are from sources that renot associated with forestation, and manyof earguments put forward about theenvironmental impact leather arespurious and very to challenge,” says Langley When considering theimpact meat and leather on CO2, important to factor in both oducts, as well as fast growing econtributing to CO2 he says.

realising that a byproduct meat industry and it is better use high quality, resource, send to are sources are not deforestation, and many of the arguments forward the environmental impact of are spurious and very open to says When the impact of on it is products, as well as fast grass pasture contributing to absorption, he says.

50%recycled ABS in all other colours. Its 10 standardcolours include the2024 colour of theyear,Red Earth, and are available from 500units. Specialcolours are available from upwardsof10,000 units.

The pen’s sustainability is further enhanced when paired with Prodir’sunique Floating Balllead free refillwithastainless-steel writing tip withalow-pollutantink which containsnosubstances classified by REACH as SubstancesofVeryHighConcern(SVHC)

HEXAGONAL CLASSIC

AINABLEWRITER

SUSTAINABLE WRITER

Another Prodir addition is theQS50Stone whichitdescribes as an innovatively sustainable take on thehexagonal shape of apencil. Made from aspecial material enriched withminerals, theQS50has 60%less plastic and 50%moreweight, a difference that adds to thevalue perception, claims Prodir

lex technologies, but the point from Prodir boils the ument down to only twoparts. requires no separatespring but is organically apart of thecasing–a clever,closed system.

Pens are complex but the new DS11 ball from writing instrument to two parts. The mechanism no separate spring or components, but is a part the casing – a clever, closed system.

Withtwo generous print areas on the clip andbody,Prodir promotes theDS11as apen forstraightforward brand messages that get right to the point. It comes in 10 standardcolours andismade with100% recycled ABS plastic in blackorwhite, and

In addition to thenew design, QS Stone is thefirst to featurearefreshed paletteof 10 metal- and mineral-inspired colours, including Sideral blue, Lazuliteblue, Jade green, Rose quartz, Redjasper,Gold, White dolomite, Blackcarbon, Silver,and Graphite.

Produced 100% in Switzerland in accordance withthe country’sstrict environmental regulations, thepen can help brands make greater sustainability acredible part of their brand message.

Personalisation options include satinfinish metal clips,colour-contrasted clip holders, stylish metal push buttons, anda low-polluting writing system.

Juniper notes thefirstreversal in trends for real leather sales, withenquiries and orders rising. Langley puts this downtopeople

SHAPE MEETS

• Theclassic retractableballpens with metal upperand fittings nowinnew colours!

• UseofABS plasticexclusively from German suppliers

• Complete value chainatthe site in Germany: planning-production-dispatch

• Equippedwithasenator®G2refill,boasting awritinglengthof5,000 mand produced usingGermanraw materialsinour own facility.Refillscan be reordered free of charge.

• In termsofecological advantages,aproduct made in Germanystands outasexceptional compared to articles from theFar East dueto itssmaller environmentalfootprint.

SWEETSUCCESS FROM SENATOR

Also flying theflag forthe environment is Senator,whose new Melbi ballpoint pen claims anew approach to sustainabilityin threekey ways.

The chunky pen is made from production residues of other Senator bio products. It also uses bio-based plastic wastefrom sugar cane, and is resource-conserving as no additional rawmaterials areadded.

In addition, theMelbi pen also boasts climate-neutral production in Senator’s ownfactoryinGermany, whichispowered by CO2neutral green energy.The location of theproduction cuts down on the transportation carbon footprint. Senator pens also featureafreereplacement refill, easily ordered online.

lanyards for easy access, it ideal for corporate colours

Furthermore, the Melbi is versatile. It can be worn on lanyardsfor easy access, making it ideal for schools, events, and themedical industry.

Primarily available in black, Melbi can be Pantone matched forquantities over10,000 It is also available in apresentation case whichcan be branded.

RAPID RESPONSE

As thelicensees forPierre Cardin in the UK and Ireland, Tancia supplies theLafleur ballpen. This premium pen is crafted from aluminium and finished withspecially formulated enamels, making it ideal forboth personal and corporateuse.

The Lafleur stands out withaselection

of 13 corporatecolours andalarge print area that is perfect for spot colour printing or laser engraving. It is available withaminimum order quantityof 250units and as astock item boasts rapid lead times of threeworking days.

Another item withquickleadtimes is thevalue-priced Blue Ink Contour Range. This selection boasts an extensive colour range, withvarious print methods making them perfect forcorporateenvironments, promotional events, or personal use.

Standardleadtime is only 3-5days, with24-hour and 48-hour express service options at an additional charge

Pens &stationery

OCEAN WARRIOR

Pencom’sRecycoolballpen is an attractive pushactionball pen made from 100% ethicallysourced recycled materials, witha traceablefootprint. Forevery two penspurchased, an entireplasticbottleis prevented from entering theocean.

STATIONERYSTARS

The Recycool is produced in Europe to maintain alowercarbonfootprint. Imprinted with ‘MadewithSocial Plastic’ on theupper barrel of thepen, oppositethe clip, this productalsoincludesa European jumbo refill that has awritinglength of 2,500m.

Sistercompany,Laltex, offers a GRS-certified stationery set. This 5-piece eco stationeryset housed in a200gsmrecycled paperbox includes a15cmpoplarwooden ruler, recycled paperand PLAplasticball pen, woodenpencil,whiteeraserand wooden sharpener.Availablewithblacktrim and natural box. Colour can vary duetoitbeing a natural product.

Youcan round out theoffering withan A5 recycled version of thebest-selling Mole notebookfromBags HQ

Everycomponent of thenotebookismade from recycled materials, making asignificant contribution to reducing waste. The book comes with 80 sheets, PU coloured cover, pen loop,backpocket, ribbon bookmarkand elastic closure. The back pocketprovides

extrastorage forloose papers, business cards, or small notes. This notebookcan be customised witha logo or design, making it apowerful promotional item fora business, event, or occasion, showcasing a commitment to sustainabilitywhilecreating a lasting impressiononrecipients.

Pens and notepads featured strongly among the BPMA product award winners.

Pens and notepads featured strongly among the BPMA product award winners.

Senator picked up thePlatinum awardin theWriting Instruments categoryfor its Evoxx Duorecycled pushball pen with 100% visible parts. Therecycled material comes from things likecar parts, office furniture,shopping trolleystoproducea matt opaque barrel witha durable magic flowG2refill. Gold went to Tancia’s Oriel Wheatstrawballpen, another product which showedinnovative thinking on sustainability.BIC’s Super Clip Origin, which wonSilver, uses non-petroleum based plasticsinproduction

as an for its Reborn aluminium pen, an pen. Its sleek, modern design a recycled

body, accented by a renewable bamboo plunger, gunmetal and clear RPET recycled contour

click-action pen features a fine

Goldstar claimed Gold as an Innovative Product winner forits Reborn recycled aluminium pen, an elegant, durable metal pen. Its sleek, moderndesign features a recycled aluminium body,accented by arenewable bamboo plunger,gunmetal stainless-steel clip andclear RPETrecycled plastic contour This click-action pen features afine 0.7mmball and ahigh-capacityrefill withawriting distance of 1,800 meters, forapremium, enduring writing experience. This pen features arec symbolonthe barrel, oppositethe to highlight its innovative recycled aluminium body

The Geo² bookismade from recycled cardcover with50sheets of stone paper.Eco² also has a recycled cardcover and 75 sheets of recycled paper,while Root²features sustainably sourced paper.All notebooks aremade in theUKina carbon zero factory.

Gold waswon by Castelli Milano 1938 forits innovative Appeel 'Ortisei' notebookwhich offers high-quality textured subtly grained eco-leather paper notebooks, produced through apatented and pioneering technique from apple peel and selected vegetable fibres. Made in Italy,the books consist beautiful FSC-certified apple-co and

Italy, the of 192 ivory tinted apple-coloured pages with ruled lines and crafted rounded corners for an elegant look.

experience. This pen features a recycled symbol on the barrel, opposite the clip its innovative

Platinuminthe Stationerypro theyearcategorywent to Adco its Geo², Eco²,and Root²books.

Platinum in the Stationery products of the year category went for Geo², Eco², and Root² books.

Facing the future

Industry experts at the BPMA Sustainability Conference pondered the challenges posed for the sector

Anyone looking to predict what the promotional merchandise industry will looklikeinfiveyears’timerisks being ahostage to fortune based on theexperience of recent years.

However, theBPMAassembled apanel of industryworthies to answer this very question, and others, at theAssociation’s second SustainabilityConference.

Chaired by new BPMA CEO Phil Goodman, thepanel examined how sustainabilityisaffecting thesector,how it is responding, and what lies ahead.

Lookingtothe mid-terminthe shape of that five-year window, Anne Kerine Lemstra, VP of sustainable development, PF Concept said theindustrywillevolve andchange as it balances challenges suchas data and legislation, withthe big opportunities sustainabilityalso offers.

I think we to embrace look at it as an opportunity.

hard to learntoeducateourselves but you have procurement people that stilldon't really knowabout sustainabilitywhen their businesses need to achievetheir ESG. In five years’time it will be an integral part of business practice.”

“How arewegoing to manage this complexity? Ithink we need to embrace it, and lookatitasanopportunity. By finding away to manage this, we cancut the elephant in theroom intotinypieces, and makeour industryfutureproof,” she said.

the room into tiny pieces, and

Companies have to thinkof sustainabilityinthe broadest business sense in away that is good forboth shareholders, employees, and theplanet, she said, adding that overall, she is optimistic about thefuture.

TECHNOLOGICAL FUTURE

Joel Dalton, founder,Clone Media said that while thepast five years indicated theperils of prediction, it is clearthat sustainability is nowfront and centreofbusiness, and that technology will have moreimpact on merchandise use.

“Something likethe humble QR code, which usedtobeabit of anightmareto use, is nowsointegral to howyou move from offline to online –something which all brands should be obsessing over,”he said. “Withaugmented reality, theway that physical products react, and interact with thevirtual worldisreally interesting.”

Angela Wagstaff,founder of Allwag Promotions pointed to theincreasing speed of change as achallenge. “I hope in five years’timeeducation on sustainability will be embedded. We’reall trying really

EDUCATE BUYERS

Withmerchandise seen as atarget, the morethe industrycan educatebuyers and end users, and work withthe supply chain, thebetter,she said.

The BPMA’s StepForward Pledge is akey part in this hunger foreducation on the subject, said Melissa Chevin.

“We’ll also see morearound thekind of authenticityand transparencyofdata. The EU is taking action on greenwashing and product claims without proof from 2026. So,iflabels and product claims arenot backed by certifying bodies or government agencies, youhavea problem,” she warned.

End of lifeinstructions forcustomers will also be an area of growing importance.

The audience questioned whether suchdevelopments could be abarrier to entrytothe industryand would result in

greater consolidation around fewer, biggestplayers.

As adeveloped sector,thereis bound to be an element of such concentration, said Dalton, and therequirements of issues suchas Scope 3datacould acceleratethis.

3 data could accelerate this.

“Bigger companies have got ahuge advantage when it comes to bottom line andresources,” he said.

SUPPLYCOMPLEXITY

Lemstrapointed out that PF has 10,000 SKUs and all theassociated issues that come withthose. Bigger companies also have bigger challenges, not least that they tend to come under scrutinyfirst, she added.

Wagstaff pointed out that smaller start ups arewherecreativityand spark often emerge from, so it is important to nurturethat environment withuniversal standards forexample. However, she said collaboration is adifficult balancing act because everycompanyhas its ownUSP that it wants to protect.

“Having adiverse merchandise industry

is really healthy,particularly forUKsuppliers who tend to be smaller,” said Wagstaff.“I think distributors should really work hard to support those suppliers because it’sapoint adifference and everyone’s looking for something different.”

When it comes to thebiggest challenges posed by sustainability, Wagstaff named three–data, data, and data. Allwag spent threeyears working through theB Corp status it recently achieved, and whichshe said hadbeen enlightening as it forced the business to lookateverything.

“When youstart getting into therealms of sustainabilityand being transparent with your data,itwouldmakeitmucheasier if we were speaking thesamelanguage,”she said. “It is also challenging getting people to understand thefast andfurious natureofour industry. End users really don’tunderstand thecomplexitiesinour supplychain.”

CHANGEISCOMING

Lemstraagreed on thechallenges of databut said theissue would improve incrementally year by year as understanding improved in all sectors. Progress is slow

and it can seem daunting, but change will come.

“We’re not theonly industrystruggling withthisand going back to thefactories and saying we need moreinformation,” she said. “There is European legislation coming up on thedigital product passport, so that in five to 10 years, everybody must have this QR code.”

Withcommunication all-important, Goodman wondered howwell theindustry wascontrolling thenarrative

“It feelstomethat that’s thereally big opportunityspace forour members and forusasanindustrytotell our storybetter,” he said.

Wagstaff admitted thereisroom for improvement but said it can be hardto writethe storywhen youare still on thejourney

“Weworry about getting everything correct and perfect and Ifeel likewhile we’reinthe moment and evolving we should probably sharemore. Unless we shout about it, therestofthe worldwon’t get on withiteither.”

ForacompanylikePFConcept, the

struggle is that it has alot of stories to tell and sometimes it wants to tell too much, even when it has abig storyto tell on issues suchascutting fossil-based plastics, said Lemstra.

Goodman agreed businesses don’t need to have completed thestory to start telling it, and therisk is that they don’t start at all.

Dalton said Clone Media has started to focusontelling its sustainabilitystory more and is focusedonnot greenwashing by saying one thing and doing another.Hesaid that thecompanyisadding sustainability intoits pitchingprocess andis getting good feedback

Chevin said that Pledge applications to theBPMAshowthat theindustryisdoing incredible work withlots of innovative steps towards asustainable future.

“Thereare some really good stories out therefromsuppliers –it’squitebright out. You’ve got all of thefoundations there, so shout about it.”

CARROT AND STICK

Withthe StepForward Pledge due to become mandatoryfor members, Goodman said his personal feeling wasthat it might be better forthe sector to consider influencing members from within than risk driving them away and lose them forever.

“For some this will be thestraw that breaks thecamel’sback, so Ithink therehas to be acarrotdemonstrating to those that haven’tyet made that firstPledge what the potential benefits aregoing to be.”

He said that thefocus forthe BPMA should be on making thePledge process as simple as possible formembers encouraging those who were still hesitant that it is ajourney worthembarking on.

"Often thebiggest barrierisasense that becausethey'renot doing anything at the moment it'snot right to start thejourney But because you’re coming from alow base your futurereporting is going to look incredible,” he said.

While theAssociation could be more tolerantfor existing members who are struggling withthe process, he backed the mandateremaining forall new members.

Goodman also pointed out thepotential formembers to work together moreinthe “pre-competition space”where they could park theirdifferences, collaborate, share knowledge, data, and information.

It wasa collaborative noteto sum up thesense of togetherness felt by delegates at theconference –atogetherness they will surely requireastheyfaceuptothe challenges brought by sustainability.

PANEL

Chair –Phil Goodman, CEO,BPMA

Anne Kerine Lemstra, VP of sustainable development, PF Concept

Melissa Chevin, BPMA BoardDirector

Angela Wagstaff,founder,Allwag

Joel Dalton, founder,Clone Media

THEGAMECHANGER

Polyester offers sports clothing arange of benefits for those who play to win, says Clive Allcott

Withthe start of theEuros, WorldCup T20cricketand an Olympics around thecorner, it’sworthexamining how polyester’s properties and benefits have influenced sports clothing.

Consider these keyaspects of polyester’s influence:

1Performance enhancement

Polyester is known forits moisturewicking capabilities, whichhelp keep athletes drybydrawing sweat away from thebody.This enhances comfort and performance in high-intensitysports.

2Durability

Polyester is highly durable and resistant to stretching, shrinking, and abrasions. This makes sports clothing long-lasting and able to withstand rigorous use and frequent washing.

3 Lightweight and breathable

The lightweight natureofpolyester fabrics ensures that sportswear does not feel heavy or restrictive.Polyester also allows forgood air circulation, helping to regulatebody temperature.

4Easy careand maintenance

Polyester is easy to carefor.Itresists wrinkles, dries quickly, and is less likely to

Goldstar get Smartt for newboss

Pencompany Goldstar has appointed HeatherSmartt as global head of thecompanywitha remit to continue its global expansion.

Smarttreplaces general manager Howard Cubberley whohelmed thecompany for10years developingnew product categories and helpingtodrive thebusiness in Europe.

Shejoined thecompany lastyearasdirector of global product development to help advance Goldstar’scommitment to manufacturing alternatives expanding product categories,and enhancing global product design The companywillbelooking to fill her previousposition Smartthas 18 yearsofexperience in thesector andpreviouslyworked forPolyconcept in various locations aroundthe world.

fade, making it practical, reliableand low-maintenance.

5Versatility

Polyester can be engineered to meet specific needs, suchasenhanced elasticity, added UV protection, or integrated antimicrobialproperties, making it suitable forawiderange of sports and conditions.

6Customisation and aesthetics

Polyester’s abilitytoretain vibrant colours and accept various finishes makes it ideal forcustomising withteam logos, colours, and designs. Dye sublimation branding creates distinctive and attractive team kit.

7 Sustainability

Sportswear is increasingly focusing on sustainability withpre and post-consumer recycled RPET polyester.This move aligns with the growingdemand foreco-friendly options.

She said: “Wehavea great foundation, andI am looking forwardtoenhancing our services,bringingmoresocial and environmentalawareness across thecompanyaswecontinue globalexpansion, commitmentsto Simplicity and ourlineofproducts ‘Made Better’.”

Simplicity is Goldstar’s allinclusive pricing modeland Made Better is acommitmenttothe use of recycled materials in its products.

Earlier this year,Smartt announced Goldstar’s partnership withsustainable drinkware company,Ocean Bottle, on anew productline.

IMPACTONSPECIFIC SPORTS

Runningand cycling: Polyester’s moisture-wicking and lightweight properties makeitideal forrunning and cyclinggear, wherecomfort and performance arecrucial.

Team sports: Durabilityand ease of customisation makepolyester apopular choice foruniforms in sports likesoccer, basketball, and football.

Outdoor activities: Forsports like hiking, skiing, and climbing, polyester’s insulating and quick-drying capabilities areextremely beneficial.

INNOVATION

Ongoing research anddevelopment in textile technology continue to improve polyester sportswear.Innovations suchassmart textiles withintegrated sensors, enhanced breathability, and eco-friendly materials areshaping the futureofsports clothing.

In conclusion, polyester’s influence on sports clothing has been agame changer, offering performance benefits, durability, and versatility. As theindustryevolves, polyester continues to be at theforefront of innovations that enhance athletic performance and meet thedemands of modernsports enthusiasts.

HappySelling

Clive theclothing and bagguru

Kingly looksto double production

Industryveteran Chris Edmonds has joined sock manufacturerKinglyasits newoperationsdirector bringingmorethan 40 yearsofexperience

Edmonds said he wanted to make theSofia-based business thebest sock maker in Europe,doubling production capacityinthe next six months.

“Overtimewecan introduce moremachineryintothe manufacturingunit.Wecan make manyother different products. Andthe more we can offerour customers,the happierour customers can be,” he said.

Kingly wasrecently recognisedfor itsdenim upcycling project by theMinistry of Labour andSocial Policyin Bulgaria, placing thirdinthe Ecology section

Thedenimproject aimstocut wastebyrepurposing material as new products.

‘BESTEVER’ GREEN EVENTFROMGEIGER

Geiger has welcomed customers to the fourth Geiger Green Live, its award-winning series of sustainable merchandise events.

Along with colleaguesfromFirebrand Promotions, which recently joined theGeigergroup,itshowcased the latestsustainable products, giving customers inspirationfor futurecampaigns and activities that make an impactwhile minimising theeffect on theplanet

Almost 200customers from London, theUKand Europe attended Geiger Green Live,whichwas held at thestate-of-the-art Convene133 Houndsditch,inthe heart of the CityofLondon.

The event wassupported by morethan 30 supply partners who shareGeiger’s commitment to amoresustainable future for promotionalproducts

Therewas aspecial focusonproducts made from ocean preventedand ocean reclaimed plastic,witha presentationfrom KayHeenan from OceanBottle,who spoke about theissues of plastic overuse and the importance of savingthe oceans.

VickyKinasz,managingdirector of Geiger Internationalcalled thelatest Geiger Green Live eventthe bestyet.

“Wehad superb feedbackfromthose attendingonbothclientand supplierside and guests travelled from across theUKand Europe especiallyfor theevent.Weare both encouragedand delighted that so many of ourcustomers shareour vision foragreener futurefor promotionalmerchandiseand how we can all play our part,” she said

Edible merchandise company,

Eat My Logo,has switched to Wildfarmed flour as thelatest step in its journey towards sustainabilityand environmental stewardship

Unlikeconventional flours that rely heavily on pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, Wildfarmed prioritises natural processes and sustainable agricultural practices.

The flour will be used across all of Eat My Logo’s ‘from scratch’bakes, whichincludes but isn’t limited to cupcakes and biscuits, whichmakeup around 80%ofsales.

Rewardssolutions provider Procurement International has partnered withUPS Carbon Neutral Shipping as part of its commitment to environmental sustainability.

By leveragingUPS Carbon Neutral Shippingservices, thefirmhas effectively offset thecarbon emissionsassociated withpackage delivery.

Through carbon offset projects suchasreforestation, renewable energy,and methane capture, UPS invests in initiativesthat helpreduce greenhouse gas emissions and support sustainable development worldwide.

“Weare thrilled to announceour collaboration withUPS Carbon Neutral Shipping,” said Andy Bell, general manager at Procurement International. “Werecognise theimportance of sustainability in today’s business landscape. By choosing UPS Carbon Neutral Shipping, we aretaking concretesteps to minimise our environmental footprint and contributetoamoresustainable future.”

By choosing Wildfarmed, Eat My Logo aims to minimise its impact on theenvironment and support UK farming. The flour also offers enhanced nutritional benefits as a result of its production.

Eat My Logo director Andy Poar said: “Bymaking theswitch to Wildfarmed flour,weare proud to align ourselves withinitiativesthatprioritise thehealth of ourplanetand our communities. We believe that everysmall change adds up to makeabig difference, andthis transition is just one example of our ongoing commitment to sustainability.

Our sustainability

Oursustainability journey

Promotional supplier

Preseli offers awide rangeofbest-selling products from lanyards and badges through to umbrellas, pet products and exclusive brands such as Rubik’s and Magic Concepts.

Itwas among thefirst companiesto sign up to theBPMA’sStepForward pledge and has supported sustainability efforts at Merchandise Worldwith recyclable lanyards. It is also workingwith BPMA partner,AGood Thing to help find uses forsurplus merchandise.

Product Media spoke to thecompany about its approach

Q

What steps have youtaken to improve sustainability?

A

We have had our ownin-house compliance team forclose to 10 years and this hasbecome coretoour responsible sourcing policies and wider sustainabilityobjectives. Sustainabilityhas rapidly become theareathatour customers and their end users aremostinterested in.

As one of thefirst companiestomakethe StepForward Pledge we have committed to sourcing moresustainable materials in keyareas, and aregradually working towards offering our best selling products in sustainable materials. Ouraward-winning paper lanyardsare an example of genuine product innovation developed from source.

QWhat steps would youliketotakein future?

A We areworking withmaterial manufacturers to find thenext

generation of moresustainable raw materials. In termsofrecyclabilityofour products, an exciting announcement we areabletomakeisthat our polyester and RPETlanyardscan be recycled (once fittings removed) to become plastic pellets forreuse. Also,our local authority has confirmed that ourpaper lanyards (once fittings removed) aresuitable for kerbside recycling.

QWhat is your biggest challenge around sustainability?

AIt is acomplex area, forexample we recently stepped away from claims products or packaging arebiodegradable/ compostable as in realityitisoften only achievable under strict and often unavailable factoryconditions.

QWhat has theresponsebeentoyour efforts?

AStaff have responded positively by getting involvedinlocal litter picking and identifying products forcharity donations via AGood Thing. Customers have responded favourably to our offer to collect lanyardsfor recycling or reuse after exhibitions.

MERCHANDISE WORLDLANYARDS

Preseli has supplied theMerchandise World showlanyardsfor anumberofyears, and last year it ranalanyard repurposing initiative as part of its commitment to the BPMA StepForward Pledge.

Merchandise Worldhad dedicated lanyard recyclingbins in place forthe first time, encouraging visitors to return their lanyardsfor onward use. Preseli workedwithlocal charities to find ways to repurpose items and ensurethat all lanyardswererepurposed, or appropriately

recycled withnothing going to landfill.

The lanyardsare made from paper but have theappearance and feel of a normal lanyard

“Paper has been used beforebut the product wasalwayspaper like,” said Preseli marketing manager,Robert Bruce. “Our new paper lanyardsuse pulp from sustainable wood sourcesthat is then made intoa flexible textile likematerial and woven, theresult being atruelanyard that can be printed and work like anyother.”

The lanyard returnbinscollected more than 30% of thelanyardsissued.

“Our displayofre-purposing ideas got lots of attention and wasanengaging waytobring up thesubject of finding new uses forsingleuse promotional products,” he added.

Preseli used thereturns to find bigger scale solutions to repurposing and disposal of used lanyards. They arebeing used as samples as Preseli workswithprocessors to createalong-termsolution.

KEEP ON IMPROVING

BIC’s approach to sustainability covers its products, processes and its people

BIC Graphic is thedivision of theBIC Group dedicated to personalising BIC products. It has been based in Tarragona, Spain since 1995.BIC Graphic is renowned forits innovation and quality, upholding theBIC brand'slegacy.

The product range includes BIC writing instruments, lighters, Rocketbook, and the Djeep lighter range, along withpartnerships withbrands likeMoleskine and pencil brand Sprout. It leads in promotional marketing solutions across Europe, theMiddle East, and Africa.

IMPROVING SUSTAINABILITY

BIC CorporateFoundation’s impact on education and improving factoryhealth and safetytoachievezerowork-related accidents arealso keygoals.

THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE

According to BIC, theindustry’s biggest challengeisthe lackofuniform sustainabilitylegislation and standards across Europe, along withthe absence of cleargreenwashing legislation, which allows badpractices to harmthe industry’s reputation.

RESPONSES FROM STAKEHOLDERS

BIC operates entirely on sustainable energy and has developed theEcolutions range using natural and recycled materials.

By producing in Europe and prioritising local suppliers, BIC aims to reduce its carbon footprint. Aresponsible purchasing programme engages suppliers in the sustainabilityjourney

The companymeasuresemissions and sets science-based reduction targets. Enhanced healthand safetymeasureshave been implemented forBIC employees.

FUTURE STEPS

BIC aims to increase theuse of recycled and naturalmaterials in its products and include moresuppliers in aresponsible purchasing programme. Expanding the

BIC’s sustainabilityefforts have received very positive feedback from customers, staff and suppliers. Certifications help counteract greenwashing claims and build trust. ‘Made in Europe’isincreasingly important for purchases, and staff areproud to work for aresponsible company.

BIC IN NUMBERS

92%of products areproduced by theBIC Group

24 factories produceBIC products on 4continents

29 million BIC products are chosen everyday around theworld

Robert Bruce and MikeWilson, Preseli

WIRELESS EXTENSION

Anew technical standard promises to bring wireless charging to awider audience, says Matt Pluckrose

Wireless charging is hereto stay buthas been traditionally slowerinpopularitythanits wired alternative until now. This is all set to change as all themajor phone manufacturers arenow focusing on theconsumer benefits and speed of magnetic wireless charging (Qi2) and are actively planning new phones to use this new standardofwirelesstechnology in Q4 of this year

This will createanopportunityfor our sector if distributors arekeen to learn, ready to embrace change,and then offer this to their clients, especially those who are looking forthe latest topqualitytechnology gifts that reward,encourage and promote their client’sbrands and companies.

BEYONDAPPLE

Currently magnetic charging is thedomain of Apple withits Magsafetechwhich is exclusively used in iPhone. Magsafehas

been around nowsince 2020 withits launchinside theiPhone 12 but things are set to change as all theother major phone manufacturers arenow ready to embrace this faster,moreconvenient and reliable wayofstaying chargedand connected wirelessly.So, let’slookatthe differences, frequently asked questions and what all the noise is about.

BothMagSafeand Qi2are wireless charging technologies that use magnetic rings to position thesmartphone on the charger whichmeans electricitypasses quickerbetween thecharger and thephone battery. This makes charging more efficient andfaster compared to thefirst generation of wireless chargers.

OPEN TO ALL

Qi2isawireless charging standard developed by theWireless Power Consortium (WPC). It is an open standardsupported by awide range of

manufacturers, including Apple, Samsung, LG,and Google. As aresult, Qi2– together withMagSafe–will become theuniversal standardfor wireless charging in thefuture.

SIMILAR BUT DIFFERENT

BothQi2 and MagSafeuse amagnetic ring to charge adevice wirelessly.Interms of charging speed, bothQi2 andMagSafecan support fast wireless charging up to 15W. The main differences between Qi2 and MagSafeinclude compatibility. While Qi2supports all Qi2compatible devices, including iPhones from 12, MagSafeisonly suitable forApple (iPhone 12) and upwards. Price is also adifferentiator.AQi2 charger will cost less than theprice of acomparable MagSafecharger.This is because theprice of aMagSafemoduleishigher than the price of aQi2 module due to Apple’s pricing policyand licences.

● Matt Pluckrose is managing director of Desktop Ideas

FREQUENTLYASKED QUESTIONSABOUT

MAGSAFE AND QI2

QWhen willphones startto featuresQi2?

A

Non-Apple phones will start to launch in themarketfromQ4 this year

QCanwebuy Qi2chargersnow in thepromo market?

AYes. Forward-thinking suppliers have theseavailable from stock now

QIs MagSafe availableonall iPhones?

AMagSafewirelesscharging startedwiththe iPhone12, 13,14, and 15 series.

QWasApple involved in the developmentofQi2?

AApple contributedtothe developmentofQi2 to theextent that it actually provided theMagSafe technique to theWireless Power Consortium (WPC)for use asthe basis forQi2’sMagneticPower Profile (MPP), whichdefines howQi2 works.

QWhatisthe differencebetween Qi and Qi2?

AQi2offersfaster wireless charging andmagneticalignment

QIs therea difference in power betweenQi2 and MagSafe?

ABoth technologiesoffer wireless charging up to amaximumof15W

SECTOR SUPERSTARS

The annual Page awards saw anew winner for 2024 as the catalogue group recognised excellence

The Page group hosted its annual awards to recognisethe best suppliers and distributors in thesector

Held at theDeltaWarwick Hotel, theawardsdinner followedthe catalogue group’s conference and exhibition.

Awards recognise level of quality, service, and efficiency from bothdistributors and suppliers and arebased on scores takenfromthe Page members’annual surveys.

The Gold Supplier of the Year Awardwent to theLaltex Group –the first time it has receivedthe award.

Laltex divisional heads Dan Nelson, Amber Whalley,Emma Conway and Chris Nelson accepted theaward at the Page event.

SERVICE SUPREME

Neil Horner,managing director at Laltex Group said it wasgrateful forthe recognition and remained committedtomaintainingits customerservice success.

“We’dliketothank allthe Page members forthe wonderful support they’vegiven us this year,we’re truly humbled. I would also like to paytribute to themembers of theLaltexteam, who work tirelessly to deliver thehighest levels of customer service,”headded.

The Laltex silver awards went to Preseli, Pinpointand WCM+A.

Suppliers also had the opportunitytoscore Page members in theirannual survey, withthe winnersofthe gold

awards named as Boosters, Navillus andAllwag. The distributors’silverawardswent to BH1, TKingAssociates and LSi.

OVER AND ABOVE

This year therewas anew categoryfor Supplier Superstarof theYear.This awardwas givenin recognition of asupplier contact who has helped Page members overand abovewhat would normally be expected of them

Withthe scores tied, two awards were made, to ClaireEtoe of Preseli and Sarah Desborough of The PenWarehouse

During thetabletop exhibition in theafternoon, morethan 50 supplierstookfull advantage of theopportunity to network faceto-face withPage members. The exhibitionended in time to allow suppliersand members to watch England vs Denmarkinthe Euros championship

Entertainment continued throughout theevening. As guests were seated fordinner, magician WilliamPoliet made his wayaround thetables performing close-up magictricks forthe audience. He rounded off his performance by engaging withthe whole room and performing afinalethat had the crowd astonished.

Following theawards, guests were treated to a performance from comedian Chris Washington. Networking continued in themain barinto thesmall hours.

All products can be branded with your logo to makeyou stand out from the crowd.

NO HOLIDAY FORCASHFLOW

Don’t let vacations be an excuse for apayment holiday,says Mike Collins

Ah, thesummer. Atime forunnecessarysun cream purchases, lonely garden furniture and barbeques in therain.

It’ll soon be holidayseason and just as business owners need to plan theirown holidays, they also need to plan forthe effect theholidays can have on finance.

After all, youdon’t want to be giving your cash flowaholiday too, do you?

Formost of us, theinvoices raised in June fall due at theend of July and will looktobepaid thefirst week of August, bang in themiddle of holidayseason.

DEMANDS DON’TSTOP

But your business expenses don’t take aholiday. Wages still need to be processedand paid Bills and invoices stillrequire payment. Therefore, youneed your owninvoicessettled promptly in order to keep the cash flowmoving to ultimately allowyou to have astress free, well deservedholiday

If you’re already acustomer of Direct RouteAccountAssyst, then youcan likely just kick back andrelax, knowing that youhavea slickand dedicated credit control process in place, comfortable in theknowledge that you’re on topofitall.

However, if you’ve not yet experienced thepeace of mind asuccessful account opening and credit control process can bring and currently,you’reshort on time, resource or desire, what can youdo?

CUT THE STRESS

Thereare threeeasy steps to avoid cash flowstress during theholidays.

1Remove potential payment delays. If youknowthere’s aquery on an invoice, get it resolved. Invoices arenot going to be paid whileanissue remains. Don’tgivea debtor an

excuse to say… ‘you were meant to sort that forme’

2Invoicepromptly and correctly.Ifthere’s an invoicethatcan be raised, raiseit. Even if it’sfor part of aproject, get theinvoice raised.It’sbettertohave some monies coming in while you’re away than none atall. Send statements to customers regularlytoflag up what is owed.

3Plan forpayment. Pickup thephone, speak withyour customers, ask them when they’reawayand who will be covering their desk while they are. Act on it withanemail with anyinvoices that fall due in their or your absence. Something along thelines of,“Dear John, just aquicknotetosupply you withyour invoicethatwillfall due on the16thAugust. Iknow you’re away/I’mawayfor afew days beforehand so just felt it prudent to get this across to you just in case. My accounts team areonhandshouldyou wish to discuss this further,otherwise we’llkeep an eyeout foryour payment on theday.”

PLAN AND PREPARE

In short, treat your accounts as you’re treating your impending holiday. Makeaplan, prepare and execute.

Following these simple steps beforethe holidays can guarantee agood night’srest while you’re away,safeinthe knowledge that you’ve done what youcan to maximise the returnofyour monies. However, if you’drather spend your time planning and packing, drop us alineand let us take away the stresses and strains so youcan kickbackand relax.

Contact us on 01274223190 forall your credit management support needs, whether they be planning, prevention or cure.

l MikeCollins is managing director of Account Assyst

Local Support

Contact Details

Please contact amember of our local support team for advice on any matter related to debt and credit management

London and South David Barker dbarker@directroute.co.uk 07766545871

Midlands and East Anglia KenBrown kbrown@directroute.co.uk 07795214426

Wales and North West Ian Jenkinson ijenkinson@directroute.co.uk 07860 197476

North East,Scotland andNorthern Ireland MikeCollins mike@accountassyst.com 07866 427363

ACELEBRATION OF SERVICE

Impamark is remembering the past but looking to the future this year

Essex-based Impamarkcelebrates its 55th anniversarythisyear

The family-run BPMA member was founded in 1969 in London by David and Anne Thurgood, beforemovingto Burnham-on-Crouchin1975.

Runbytheir daughter Nicky Crisp since 2006, Impamarkalso established asecond office in Valencia, Spain, whereNickyand husband John arebased.

During its decades in merchandise, Impamarkhas worked on projects ranging from supplying souvenirs forthe Royal Wedding in 1981 to sponsoring theRugby WorldCup in 1991.

Impamark also produced celebratory merchandisefor theKing’s Coronation, havingfor manyyears produced specialcoinsfor theQueen’s jubilees and90thbirthday. Forfour decades it hassupplied theMoD andArmed Forces withbrandeditems.

Impamarktold PM aboutits celebrations and plans forthe future

QHoware youmarking theanniversary?

A

We areveryexcited to have launchedour ‘5 Every55’ giveaway at thebeginning of theyear.Every 55 days ourcustomerswho have placed ordersduring theprevious 54 days willbe enteredintoaraffle to winfivedifferent ‘green and sustainable’promo products Furthertothis,weare also hostingan event in Spain in July forour staff and top suppliers.Our continued success is really down to thededication of theImpamark team and ourpartnershipwithour supply chain who areextremely supportive,sothis is ourway of saying ‘Thank you’ fortheir involvement, notforgettingasangriaortwo

QHowisbusinesslooking this year?

A

possible. Oursale of sustainableproducts in thefirst four months of 2024 is almostwhat is wasfor thewhole of 2021

The other big change hasbeen the amazing move to full colour printing. Years ago we used to put aone colour print on to all products, but nowwithmodern techniques thepossibilities forfull colour wraps and soft feel transfers and DTG finishes areendless enabling theclient’s brand to have areal wowfactor and ahigh end retail feel

Q

55 years is quitea run. What is the secret of success?

We have had averybusyfew years since Covid and thebusiness has gone from strengthtostrength. We thought our industrywould be affected by the economic downturncoming so soon after Covid as marketing budgets and plans were only just back inplace,however, muchof our work is fromrecommendation and repeat business whichhas protected us and assisted our growth

QWhat arethe biggest changes you have noticed in merchandise?

A Thebiggest change has beenthe move towardmoresustainablemerchandise whichisabsolutelyasitshouldbe. Impamark undertookthe BPMA's sustainability pledge in November last year and promotes environmentally conscious products where

A

Nevergiveup-alwayspersevere. Ring thechanges, provide what the clients want, not what youwant to supply We believeour high level of service is key to our success. Do what yousay youwill do,keeping your promises, and don’t let customers down. Work withyour suppliers because youare apartnership,without them youdon't have abusiness. If youdo makeamistake -own it and alwaysput it right fast.

QHowwill the companydevelop?

A

Impamarkiscommitted to further developing our companywithastrong focus on sustainabilityand environmental stewardship.Buildingonthe Step Forward Pledge, we will continue to enhance our

sustainabilitypractices and initiatives. We have areally great team who have ahuge amount of industryknowledge withsome new recent staff additions. Training is key in order to give our clients agreat buying experience and to enable our team to be professional and supportive.Weare a traditional and family-owned business who arepassionateabout what we do and we want to continue doing just that

Q

Howlong have youbeenmembers of theBPMA?

A

We have been long-standing members of theBPMAfor nearly two decades. It allows us to stay up-to-date withthe latest industrytrends, network with industryprofessionals and access valuable resources that enable us to continuously improve and deliverqualityproducts to our valued clients.

THEAGE OF TECHNOLOGY

In 25 years developing gadgets for branding, Desktop Ideas has remained at the cutting edge of technological innovation

Nothing changes faster than technology –just take alookat your mobile phonefrom10, or even five years ago forevidence. Withgreater reliance on tech,staying on topofwhat’shot is no easy matter, especially as gadgets have become one of themost important sectors of promotional merchandise.

Over thepast 25 years, Desktop Ideas (DTI) has made it its business to find the technology that goes beyond fads to be valuable promotional tools.

Witha background in product design and marketing, founder Matt Pluckrose recognised theopportunityfor tech gadgets as companies began to embrace theinternet. Early hits included liquid filled mouse mats –which remain one of his favouriteproducts –and theUntangler,a gadget to solvetwisted phonecords.

TECH DEVELOPERS

DTIcollaboratedwithEUpartners to promoteand sell suchunique items and its range developed to include some of

thelargest sellingitems in thepromo marketsuchasdigital photoframes, Wi-Fi detectors, modem cables, and memory sticks whichDTI launched and pioneered.

“I sawthe priceofthese coollittle computer devices change from £38 per unit for16MB on launchto£2.50per unit for 64GBsomeyears later,” says Pluckrose. “It’s quiteajourney but Ican honestly sayevery new product launchperiod we undertake eachyear fills me withexcitement.”

The change from cutting edge to commoditydemonstrates theimportance of keepingyour finger on thepulse of technology.DTI has managed through a firmset of criteria to develop ideas into awardwinning products. It researches gaps in themarketand designs new concepts that areuseful, add value and will be desired by theconsumer,rather than being afad.

GLOBAL BRANDS

The company’sproduct range has centred on some of thelargest product innovations thetechworld has seen withuseful accessories forglobalproducts suchas

iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch.

This globalview of products and sourcing led thecompanytoopen one of thefirst offices in Asia to maintain its position in its field. Xoopar,aleading brand fortech accessories, remainsthe company’skey partner in Asia.

Agrowing appetitefor technology in themerchandise industryhas been driven by greater appreciation of its value and usefulness as abranding tool.Trends for connectivity, working from home, nomadic working, international travel and business networking have all had huge effects on the demand fortech.

Despitethe trials of recent years, including Brexit and thepandemic, DTI has weathered thestormstocome out stronger by sticking to thecompany strategy,beliefs andfocus on product innovation matched withtraditional service. Pluckrose describes this as a“can do-will do”attitude, whichwas recently recognised by arecent BPMA awardfor supplier of the year, on topofmultiple product awards wonbyDTI.

The futurewill retain afocus on these corevalues, as well as increasing heed of sustainabilityinall things the companydoes.

Therewill also be afocus on efficiency and howthe companysupports clients and makes operations easier to navigate, including syncing withclient websites and CRM systems.

“The futurefor DTIwillbebright and we intend to take all our partners, investors and clients on this journey to makegood business and most important to makegood business that does not adversely impact our planet,” he adds.

TRAINTOSUCCEED

BPMA students explain what they get from their industryeducation

London-based Project Merchandise distributor Project Merchandise specialises in sustainable merchandise. It received itsBCorpaccreditation in 2022 and takespeopledevelopment seriously.Itcurrently has two staff members undertaking BPMA course. They toldProduct Media about theirtraining journeys.

NATALIE ELLISON

“I’mamarketingexecutive forProject Merchandise, asustainable merchdistributor

My day-to-daymostlyinvolves putting togetherdecks forthe sales team,which allinclude visuals of howtheir products will look, so athoroughunderstanding of brandingmethods is essential.

Havingnoprevious experienceinthe promoindustrywas certainly daunting to begin with –there wassomuchtolearnand wrap my head around. Iwas very quickly enrolled on to thenext intakeofthe BPMA TPM, whichstarted acouple of months later Gettinggoing on this massively helped me to understand all thenew vernacular being thrown my way, anditwas very interesting and helpful to learn more aboutthe industry as awhole, especiallyits history

At first,itwas relativelyeasy to fit my studying in,but inevitably as Ibecame more comfortable in my role, Iwas given an increased workloadand finding the timetocomplete thecourse became a bit more challenging, so Iwoulddefinitely recommend other students knuckle down ASAPwhileyourplatehas less on it

Overall, Ireally enjoyedmyexperience withthis course and it really helpstoprovide adeeper understandingofthe promo industry, particularly if you’re new to it like Iwas.Asanaddedbonus, allthe staffare really friendly so youcan always go to them withany questionswhenever youneed.”

VYK ARAVINDA

“Myname is Vyk, andI am ajuniorsales executiveatProject Merchandise. Ihave been here forjust undera month. The industrywas completely foreigntome when Ijoined andstudyingthe level 1BPMA coursehelpedmerapidly learn theindustry.

From keyinformationsuch as branding methods, to athorough understandingof theimportanceofsustainability, theBPMA is tailored forindividuals to grasp abetter understanding of merchandiseand itsrole. Ipersonally feel theelective modules should be compulsory as it containsvery useful information

Irecommend this highly to anystarter seeking to learnthe industryasa novice, as it is ultimately aprovision forsuccess.

Fortunately,myemployergavemetime to study allthe information. Iwouldhighly recommend to those studyingfor theexam to preparebytaking notes. Iwould put particular importance on thewebinarsas they areaneasy waytosoakupinformation prior to theexam.Good luck.”

LEARN YOUR OWNWAY

The BPMA Education Programme is designed to empowerlearners and promotebest practice within theindustry.

It offers athree-tiered continuous learning platform, catering forall levels of experience within thepromotional products industry. From new starters to experienced industryprofessionals, theBPMAoffers theonly recognised industry qualifications of its type, only open to BPMA members.

TPM– theTrained in Promotional Merchandise qualification is thestarting point of your continuous professional development journey in merchandise. It is aimed at individuals who have up to threeyears promotional merchandise industryexperience.

CPM– formoreexperienced practitioners witha minimum of threeyears’industryexperience, the Certified in Promotional Merchandise qualification is thenextstep. The course wasrecently fully updated and refreshed.

MPM– take your professional development journey to thehighest level withthe Master of Promotional Merchandise qualification. The MPMisfor industryleaders withmorethanfiveyears experience and this course is being fully updated.

MIXAND MINGLE

The BPMA is launching anew networking eventinthe shape of amembers’mixer

IntroducedbyCEO Phil Goodman at therecentBPMAconference, theevent will be an opportunitytomeetand collaboratewithfellowmembers over lunchand refreshments

Theevent is complimentary for BPMA members withalimit of two tickets percompany

It is part of theBPMA’snew social andcontent strategy which willsee theAssociationadapt howitlooks and

communicates,said Goodman.

The first mixer willbeheldatThe Lighterman, in Kings Cross on 7 November from 1-4pm.

Acontemporarycanal side pub and diningroominthe heartof the redeveloped KingsCross area, The Lighterman provides arelaxedbut business-likemeeting space.

Although thefirst eventisinLondon, Goodman said that theintentistohold similarmixers at otherplacesaround the country.Watch this space.

DIVERSITYSTUDY

The BPMA is conducting astudy to gain crucial insights intothe diversity of the promotionalmerchandise, to help gain abetterunderstanding of its position as an industry.

The online surveyiscompletely anonymous and examines suchareas as:

■ Levels of female ownership

■ Ethnic profile of directors and owners,

and ethnicityofemployees

■ Gender

■ The age range of employees

■ Workingenvironment, including training opportunities

■ DEI policies

■ Charitable giving

To find out moreabout thesurvey, contact theBPMAatenquiries@bpma.co.uk.

CALENDAR DATES

2024 17 July –BPMAMembers Orientation seminar,Leatherhead 23 July –StepForward Pledge support session. These online sessions offer BPMA members advice on howtoprogress their Pledge and ask questions 11 September –Merchandise World, Milton Keynes 6November –BPMAMembers Orientation seminar,Leatherhead 7November –Member-only mixer event, The Lighterman, London 6December –Product Awards 2024-25 Live,London 2025 7-9January –PSI,Dusseldorf 22-23 January –Merchandise World, Coventry 22 January –BPMAAwardsdinner

MEETING THESECTOR

Industry events provide the perfect opportunity to network with industry peers and find out more about pressing issues such as sustainability,says Kian

Being part of theBPMAgrantsme theprivilege to work withsomany amazing businesses. Luckilyas we know,our industry is thriving andthere aremanyeventsand exhibitions throughout theyear. Iamgratefultobeable to keep in regular contact with thepeople representing these successful businesses. Recently,Iattended thePromotional Showcase in Cardiff and Leicester, hosted by NigelBailey.This wasa wonderful opportunitytosee members, and catch up on their progression within our industry. The Big Promotional Trade Showcontinues to support our sector and is great at introducing other businesses, helping encourage further relationships.

At thestart of themonth, theBPMAwas at theCrowne Plaza HotelinMarlowfor our annual SustainabilityConference. Aheadofthe main event, theBPMAheld apre-sustainabilityconference barbecue. Thisprovedtobeanexceptional evening anditwas lovely to be able to catch up with membersoversome goodfoodina stunning venue.Ifonlythe weather was betterthis year.The followingday we had

Clews-Braddon

ourSustainability Conferencewithan impressive line up of attendeesand speakers, and thankyou to allwho attended.

Thereare lots more exciting dates in my calendar,and Iamlooking forwardto future meetings withour members.

● Kian Clews-Braddon is theBPMA’s membership executive,promoting membership benefitsand aiding membership growth.Contacthim at kian.cb@bpma.co.uk

THE ULTIMATE IN STANDARDS

You’ve donethe hardworktoget your businesstothe high standards expected,quality assurance,product conformity, ethical andenvironmental values,trust andtransparency.

Nowearnthe mark to representyourbusiness, BPMA Charter.

We areactivelyrecruitingand seeking thosemembers whoare alreadyeligibletoapply forthe Charterstandard.Tofind outmore about howyou canbepartofthisadditional mark of quality andassurance,pleasecontactustoday.Call 01372371184 or contact membership@bpma.co.uk

BPMA Charter: theultimateinindustrystandards.

YOUR ROAD TO SUCCESS